Document Type
Article
Language
eng
Format of Original
9 p.
Publication Date
2-2013
Publisher
American Psychological Association
Source Publication
Professional Psychology: Research and Practice
Source ISSN
0735-7028
Abstract
Psychology has been remarkably successful as both a basic and applied science despite serious and persistent conflict between its many theoretical camps and schools of thought. By far the most influential approaches to conceptualizing clinical practice in psychology have been the traditional theoretical orientations, even though they are widely viewed as inadequate and incomplete. This article reviews the underlying reasons for these conflicts and then discusses the emergence of a unified scientific framework that moves the profession beyond these problems. Outmoded conceptual frameworks are not appropriate for a science-based profession, and professional psychology needs to consider making a systematic transition to a comprehensive scientific approach to understanding human development, functioning, and behavior change.
Recommended Citation
Melchert, Timothy P., "Beyond Theoretical Orientations: The Emergence of a Unified Scientific Framework in Professional Psychology" (2013). College of Education Faculty Research and Publications. 247.
https://epublications.marquette.edu/edu_fac/247
Comments
Accepted version. Professional Psychology: Research and Practice, Vol. 44, No. 1 (February 2013): 11-19. DOI. © 2013 American Psychological Association. Used with permission.